Exit Factor, a business consulting franchise specializing in exit planning and business valuation improvement, has expanded into Huntsville, Alabama, with a new location owned and operated by Marty and Penny Ferdig.

The husband-and-wife team brings more than 70 years of combined leadership and professional experience to the franchise, which will provide consulting services to small and midsize business owners throughout the Huntsville area.

Marty Ferdig has more than 35 years of experience in the U.S. Army and executive-level positions in defense industry logistics and program management. Penny Ferdig brings experience in nonprofit program management and community service, including her work supporting military families.

Together, they will help business owners improve operational efficiency, increase profitability, strengthen company valuations and prepare for potential ownership transitions.

“We are incredibly proud to launch Exit Factor in the Huntsville area,” said Marty and Penny Ferdig. “We look forward to partnering with local business owners to help them streamline operations, unlock the true value of their companies, and successfully navigate every stage of the business lifecycle.”

Exit Factor provides business consulting and exit planning services designed to help owners increase the value of their companies, whether they intend to sell immediately or continue operating for several years.

The company’s programs focus on profitability, operational improvements, business valuation and strategies to make businesses more attractive to potential buyers.

Exit Factor was founded by Jessica Fialkovich, an author, entrepreneur and business broker who developed the consulting model after identifying a need for business owners to improve their companies before pursuing a sale.

Fialkovich previously operated a Transworld Business Advisors franchise, where she worked with entrepreneurs preparing to sell their businesses.

“We look forward to bringing Marty and Penny on board to help even more business owners,” Fialkovich said.

According to Exit Factor, clients participating in its programs have reported an average 25% increase in profits and a 56.7% increase in business value within their first year. The company also reports an average of $2,700 in additional exit value for every hour participants spend in its program.

Exit Factor is part of United Franchise Group’s family of affiliated brands and provides services through individual consulting engagements and online programs.

The Huntsville opening expands the franchise’s geographic reach and introduces its business improvement and exit planning services to entrepreneurs in northern Alabama.